With the second generation model, launched in 2011, Mercedes sharpened both the look and feel of its small MPV. The latest addition to the B-Class lineup is this - the B180 CDI ECO SE- which as the name suggests, is the ultra-efficient model in the range. Using the same 1.5 litre diesel motor as found in the regular B180 CDI, the ECO uses clever efficiency-boosting tweaks to bring down CO2 emissions to 98g/km and boost fuel economy up to a claimed 74.3 mpg. Despite looking virtually identical to a normal SE model, the changes include a more aerodynamic grille, underbody paneling, lower suspension and longer ratios for the six-speed manual gearbox. 

A high roofline makes for easy entry into the B-Class, and once inside there’s a copious amount of head and legroom. Accommodation is flexible, thanks to rear seats easily folding down in a 60/40 split, and the boot offers a capacious 666 litres seats up and 1545 litres seats down - comfortably outsizing the Golf Plus, with Ford’s C-Max offering a slightly larger ‘seats down’ space of 1723 litres. Plumping for the optional Easy Vario Package increases versatility further still, thanks to fore and aft adjustment of the rear bench. There’s a plentiful array of storage areas dotted around the car too, so B-Class is well adapted to family duties.

Front seats are comfortable and supportive, although the rear bench seats are rather short, so taller passengers may notice a shortage of thigh support. Instrumentation is classy and clear – though some may find the steering wheel partially obstructs the view of the speedo. Other gripes include ventilation controls set rather low in the dashboard.

Standard equipment on this SE spec includes Leather-trimmed three-spoke multi-function steering wheel, tyre pressure loss warning system, Collision Prevention Assist, auto wipers, Audio 20 CD/radio – with 5.8-inch colour display and telephone keypad, incorporating Bluetooth® and MP3/iPod connectivity. A hefty £2,100 buys you the Mercedes ‘COMAND’ infotainment system, which provides a seven-inch colour display, 10 GB  hard disk drive (HDD) navigation with 3D maps, Speed Limit Assist and Linguatronic voice control with Mercedes-Benz apps.

As you’d expect from a Mercedes, the B180 ECO SE has a premium, high quality feel. This is further enhanced by the £1,535.00 ‘Exclusive package’, which adds heated front seats with four-way lumbar support, leather upholstery in Lava Black and high gloss Black Ash wood trim.

For an MPV, the B-Class is decent enough to drive, although it doesn’t have the dynamic sharpness of the smaller A-Class hatchback. However, a Direct Steer Variable Steering system allows the driver to place the car accurately on the road and press-on safely, while the brakes are positive. SE spec definitely suits the B-Class’s family car orientation more than the less forgiving Sport spec, courtesy of smaller 16-inch alloys and softer sprung suspension.

108 bhp doesn’t look much on paper, but the 1.5 litre diesel also outputs 260Nm of torque between 1,750 – 2,500 rpm, thereby providing good  levels of real-world performance, which is easily accessible via the well-chosen ratios of the slick six-speed gearbox.

Verdict:

Compared to key rivals, the B-Class is by no means cheap - this B180 CDI ECO SE weighing in at a hefty £22,950.00 before options. Yet, arguably it’s the pick of the B-Class bunch, with the most comfortable chassis set-up coupled with the lowest running costs.

Tech Spec:

Mercedes B180 CDI ECO SE
OTR PRICE: £22,950.00
Max Power: 108bhp 4000 rpm
Max Torque: 260Nm at 1,750 – 2,500 rpm
Max Speed: 118 mph
Acceleration: 0-62 mph in 11.6 secs
MPG (combined): 74.3
CO2 emissions: (g/km) 98